Manila, March 26 -- Transport leaders in Northern Mindanao reaffirmed their commitment to the government's Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program on Wednesday, even as local officials extended their review of proposed new routes for upgraded jeepneys.

Luzminda Escobidal, president of the Northern Mindanao Federation of Transport Cooperatives, told reporters that 42 transport cooperatives have already begun transitioning to modern vehicles despite the delayed implementation of Cagayan de Oro's Local Public Transport Route Plan.

"Our members recognize this program's long-term benefits for both operators and passengers," Escobidal said, noting that 72 percent of the region's transport groups support the initiative.

The city's Roads ...